“Once your unemployment runs out, you’re done,” said Michael Butler, a Benicia resident who counts himself among the nation’s “99ers” — those who have been out of work for more than 99 weeks. Through his association of what’s called the “99ers Union,” an information-sharing group of individuals and associations affected by continued joblessness, he’s heard of individuals who are in far worse shape than he.

“These people are tired of trying very hard to find a job,” he said. They’re tired of losing their electricity and phones. “The well’s run dry, and their dignity’s gone.” Butler has his own challenges, living at what he called “emergency level” for too long.

“The more you invest in people, the more it’ll come back,” Butler said. But the legislation offers 99ers more than just benefits, he said. “It’s hope,” Butler said. Something millions in the U.S. need.

“Once your unemployment runs out, you’re done,” said Michael Butler, a Benicia resident who counts himself among the nation’s “99ers” — those who have been out of work for more than 99 weeks. Through his association of what’s called the “99ers Union,” an information-sharing group of individuals and associations affected by continued joblessness, he’s heard of individuals who are in far worse shape than he.

“These people are tired of trying very hard to find a job,” he said. They’re tired of losing their electricity and phones. “The well’s run dry, and their dignity’s gone.” Butler has his own challenges, living at what he called “emergency level” for too long.

“The more you invest in people, the more it’ll come back,” Butler said. But the legislation offers 99ers more than just benefits, he said. “It’s hope,” Butler said. Something millions in the U.S. need.